As with most technologies, advanced AI systems like ChatGPT bring a host of benefits and pitfalls, given that technology is not just merely a tool we use but is something that is deeply shaping our perception of the world. It is easy to think that we simply use technology as a tool for good or bad, but in reality it is altering how we understand God, ourselves as human beings, and the world around us—including our neighbors.
While this particular tool is still relatively novel, we can already see how it can be useful in summarizing complex ideas, helping write various bits of copy, aiding us in complex tasks, and so much more. We have already seen professors seeking to incorporate it into their classrooms, dispelling certain myths about what these systems can do and also helping students to cultivate wisdom to navigate technologies like this in light of the Christian ethic rather than simply try to avoid them in vain.
Alongside the possible benefits, there are currently countless limitations and pitfalls with these systems that must be taken into account as one thinks through the ethical ramifications of their use.
The Rundown
Spirals of Delusion by Henry Farrell, Abraham Newman, and Jeremy Wallace | Foreign Affairs
In policy circles, discussions about artificial intelligence invariably pit China against the United States in a race for technological supremacy.
What is the Psalm 139 Project? by ERLC Staff | ERLC
The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention is dedicated to protecting life in all stages of development, including those in the womb. The Psalm 139 Project is an overflow of that commitment.
AI revolution: Tech finds its next platform by Scott Rosenberg | Axios
Any new technology that checks all these boxes and keeps springing new surprises on us earns the world’s attention — as previous platforms did, from the iPhone to the internet itself all the way back to the rise of the personal computer.
Pastors’ view: Sermons written by ChatGPT will have no soul by David Crary | AP News
Among sermon writers, there is fascination – and unease – over the fast-expanding abilities of artificial-intelligence chatbots. For now, the evolving consensus among clergy is this: Yes, they can write a passably competent sermon. But no, they can’t replicate the passion of actual preaching.
Google, YouTube taking steps to protect users from explicit content by Diana Chandler | Baptist Press
Google will automatically blur sexually explicit images in search results regardless of security settings, the company announced Feb. 7 in one of the latest moves among tech giants to limit unintentional pornographic viewing online.